A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Proton Therapy in Cancer Treatment: Enhancing Jordan's Medical Tourism

Speaker(s)

Fasseeh A1, Almomani E2, Elezbawy B3, Ahmed Y4, El-Fass KA4, Al-Sharu E5, Kalo Z6
11) Faculty of Pharmacy Alexandria University 2) Syreon Middle East, Alexandria, Egypt, 2Jordanian Royal Medical Services, Amman, Jordan, 31) Semmelweis University, Hungary; 2) Syreon Middle East, Alexandria, ALX, Egypt, 4Syreon Middle East, Alexandria, Egypt, 5Jordanian Royal Medical Services, Department for Health Technology Assessment, Amman, Jordan, 61. Semmelweis University, Center for Health Technology Assessment; 2. Syreon Research Institute, Budapest, PE, Hungary

Presentation Documents

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate the financial viability of setting up a proton therapy center in Jordan for cancer treatment, considering the potential boost in medical tourism to support the investment decision.

METHODS: We performed a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) from both a societal perspective, representing the overall Jordanian economy, and from the perspective of the Jordanian Royal Medical Services (RMS), acting as the public payer. Data were gathered through surveys with local healthcare experts and supplemented by existing literature. The reliability of the CBA model was assessed using deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses, examining both conservative and maximum capacity scenarios.

RESULTS: From a societal viewpoint, the CBA indicated a Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.24, suggesting a 1.24-fold return for every Jordanian Dinar (JOD) invested. The Net Present Value (NPV) was 15 million JOD, with an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 12%, reflecting substantial annual growth, and a payback period of 7 years. From the RMS perspective, the BCR was 1.08, with an NPV of 5,178,724 JOD and an IRR of 6%, indicating steady growth with a 9-year payback period. The robustness of these findings was confirmed through sensitivity analyses. Under the maximum capacity scenario, the financial outlook improved, with a societal BCR of 1.80 and an NPV exceeding 53 million JOD. The RMS perspective showed a BCR of 1.58 and an NPV of nearly 39 million JOD, both achieving a 5-year payback period.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings demonstrate a strong justification for investing in proton therapy, offering notable financial returns and enhancing medical tourism. The anticipated payback period within the lifespan of the device provides policymakers with confidence in the sustainability and viability of this enhancement to Jordan’s healthcare system.

Code

EE537

Topic

Economic Evaluation, Medical Technologies, Study Approaches

Topic Subcategory

Cost-comparison, Effectiveness, Utility, Benefit Analysis, Decision Modeling & Simulation, Medical Devices

Disease

No Additional Disease & Conditions/Specialized Treatment Areas, Oncology